BoG warns against taping torn cedi notes for reuse
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has warned against the practice of repairing damaged cedi banknotes for resale or recirculation, saying the activity poses risks to the country’s currency and cash-handling systems.
The caution follows a social media video showing individuals using adhesive tape to rejoin torn and soiled banknotes as a business.
The central bank said banknotes repaired with tape, glue, staples or other unauthorised methods should not be returned to circulation.
It warned that such notes could damage automated teller machines (ATMs) and currency-processing equipment. They could also be rejected during payments or when holders attempt to exchange them, potentially resulting in financial losses.
“The Ghana Cedi banknote is legal tender and an important national symbol. No person should engage in the repair, re-joining or other alteration of mutilated banknotes for re-issuance or recirculation,” the statement said.
The BoG stressed that it has the sole mandate for managing Ghana’s currency. It urged the public to use approved banking channels when dealing with damaged banknotes.
People holding torn or mutilated cedi notes have been advised to take them to a commercial bank for examination and possible replacement.
The central bank also clarified that anyone presenting a damaged note for examination must provide more than half of the original banknote.
This means holders should retain damaged notes and submit them for assessment instead of attempting to restore them for use in transactions.
The BoG further encouraged the public to handle cedi notes carefully to prevent unnecessary damage.
It also called on people to report anyone involved in the improper repair or mutilation of banknotes to the central bank or the appropriate law enforcement authorities.
The warning places renewed attention on how damaged currency should be handled, particularly as videos of taped banknotes circulate on social media.
The central bank’s position is that damaged notes must go through the approved examination and replacement process rather than being repaired and put back into circulation.
The statement ended with a call for the public to protect the national currency.
“Respect the Cedi. It is our national pride,” the statement added.
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